mardi 28 février 2017
lundi 27 février 2017
vendredi 24 février 2017
This 15-Minute Yoga Flow Will Instantly Brighten Your Skin
jeudi 23 février 2017
Jen Widerstrom’s Medicine Ball Workout Will Get You Toned from Head to Toe
4 Ways to Fix Your Form to Get Better Results from Your Shoulder Press
mercredi 22 février 2017
First Look: The New Adidas Ultra Boost X, a Running Shoe Designed Just for Women
Last week I was invited to San Francisco by Adidas to test out the latest offering from the sneaker brand: the new women-specific Adidas Ultra Boost X ($180 at adidas.com, as well as footlocker.com, six02.com, roadrunnersports.com, and other retailers). Think of it as the love child of the PureBoost X—the one with that cool-looking floating arch that launched last year and the three-year-old energy-returning Ultra Boost silhouette, hence the name: Ultra Boost X.
Over a two-day period, our group of 100 other editors, fitness influencers, and just all-around badass women from around the world made our way through several runs in the Adidas Ultra Boost X, each more epic than the next. We tackled the shoreline at Land’s End park in the rain, sprinted around the Kezar Stadium track and up its stadium steps (multiple times), powered up Filbert Street (the steepest in all of San Francisco), and down the zigzagged Lombard Street, pushed the pace on a self-powering treadmill during a HIIT workout, strode across the Golden Gate Bridge in Karl the Fog (yep, they have a name for their fog) and, finally, braved the Bernal Heights hill, which was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the San Francisco skyline. I also took ‘em for a spin in New York when I returned from the West Coast, and the weather was definitely a doozy: a windy mix of snow, sleet and rain.
Needless to say, I’ve put in a fair amount of miles in these babies in varying weather conditions, and can truly say I am impressed. First of all, they are cute (which is a must). And though the colorway I tested is orange and black, surprisingly they don't look like something you'd only sport during Halloween. To jazz mine up even more, I traded the black laces for the alternate gray tweed pair they came with. Also noteworthy: the fit. Wearing this shoe literally feels like you are slipping on a sock. Speaking of socks, you can wear the Ultra Boost X with or without; it’s a preference thing. Mine is with socks.
Piqued your interest? Here are a few things to consider if you are seeking to boost (see what I did there?) your next run too.
Who should wear the Ultra Boost X?
Everyone—at least that's what the folks over at Adidas say. The shoe is built to adapt to every foot and every foot strike. When you run, your forefoot and heel rotate against each other leading to friction and stretching in the midfoot, this sneaker’s free-floating arch moves with and adapts to all of these changes, resulting in a personalized fit for everyone. This feature is possible because Adidas used Aramis motion-tracking technology during its testing phase to identify exactly where feet need support when running. Pretty fancy, huh?
How much mileage are these built for?
Long or short—you can rock this kick for any distance, basically making it Cinderella’s glass slipper for performance runners. “This shoe is capable of running as long as my want to run,” explained Moritz Hoellmueller, Design Director at Adidas, during one of trip’s panels where we took a deep-dive into the science and design elements of the Ultra Boost X. Now, I haven’t logged more than 4 miles at a time in these, so I can’t speak to going long yet, but I am confidant that this pair can carry me through a 10K.
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What’s up with that knitted upper?
Cool-looking, yes, but it also has a function. The prime knitted upper is designed to expand and then snap back into place. The result: It is never restrictive, but it also never gets overstretched. Other supportive features The very prominent heel counter and cagey lacing structure, which both hug the foot and lock it into place.
Is that foamy midsole just for show?
Nope. This distinctive Adidas midsole is filled with tons of “boost” pellets or tiny energy capsules that are fused together to create a soft, springy and shock-absorbing ride. Think of it as mix between a pillow and a trampoline.
How’s the grip on the outsole?
It’s basically like having a rubber tire as the sole of your running sneaker. And you know how tires have to stand up to a bunch of different weather conditions? It does the same here. And through a rain, sleet and ice-filled street run, I didn’t loose my footing once. Let me tell you, this is a big deal, especially since I have been known to take a sudden spill—on Central Park’s Bridle Path, along the West Side Highway Running Path, and in the midst of Van Cortlandt Park’s Old Putnam Trail—for no good reason. Simply put: this grip is great!
Last thoughts?
I’ll admit $180 is a steep price, but I think if you want a trusty runner that can handle multiple distances well and has crossover fashion appeal (Read: looks great with all of your athleisure wear, this may be a cool kick to add to your repertoire. I know I definitely plan to add it to the current pairs in my running rotation.
First Look: The New Adidas Ultra Boost X, a Running Shoe Designed Just for Womenlundi 20 février 2017
7 Reasons You're Not Building Muscle Even Though You're Lifting Weights
You've been spending tons of time in the gym trying to get Michelle Obama arms, but you don't seem to be building any muscle. What gives?
Several things could explain why your arms are as noodly as ever (or why your butt isn't getting any bigger or your shoulders don't look any more sculpted)—and most of them are completely under your control. Here, our experts uncover reasons you’re not building muscle so you can make the changes you need to make all your hard work pay off.
You’re doing mostly cardio
Don’t get us wrong—cardio is important for keeping your body fat down and keeping your heart health in check. (Bonus points if you run or bike, since outdoor exercise is linked to better energy and improved mental health.) But when it comes to building muscle, hitting the treadmill won't help you much. “Every component of exercise, minus cardio, can help with muscle hypertrophy,” which is the scientific term for muscle building, says Michelle Lovitt, an exercise physiologist and trainer in Los Angeles. “Cardio tends to burn calories and puts your body in a deficit, which is great for leaning out, but not building mass.”
RELATED: Lifting Weights May Protect Memory as We Age
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You’re not using heavy enough weights
Those 5-pound dumbbells were a great place to start as a beginner, but if you've been lifting weights for a while, it's time to bump up the weight. “You can use both exercise machines and free weights,” explains Michele Olson, PhD, exercise physiologist, professor of exercise science at Auburn University Montgomery, “but, if you are not lifting heavy enough weight, it doesn’t matter if you are primarily using free weights or machines.” In order to build muscle, you must break down muscle tissue using a weight that is challenging enough to cause micro-tears, which when repaired, form denser, stronger fibers.
You’re not sleeping enough
Those micro-tears that are such a key factor for muscle-building need rest to rebuild themselves and grow stronger. When do they do that? When you’re asleep! “You have to rest and feed your muscles between workouts or you will tear them down and they will become weaker,” says Olson. “Over time, you run the risk of over-training, which can result in injury, and possibly even more sleep troubles.”
RELATED: 8 Factors That Could Be Keeping You Up at Night
You’re inconsistent with your routine
If you're serious about putting on some muscle, then the most efficient way to do it is with three intense resistance training sessions and two lighter intensity workouts per week. “You need to have consistency in a workout program, hitting at least each muscle group two times a week to build muscle,” explains Lovitt. If you’re looking to switch up exercises, Olson suggests swaps such as sumo squats instead of traditional squats; step-ups on a bench instead of lunges; and then rotating back to the former. “These types of variation can be very effective in developing muscles, but the weights must still be fairly heavy that you’re using,” she says.
You’ve developed muscle imbalances
A muscle imbalance—when one muscle is stronger than its opposing muscle—can limit your ability to exercise effectively, and could lead to injury down the line. “It’s important to recognize whether you’re really working the muscles you think you are and recognize if you’ve developed an imbalance that alters your movement pattern,” says Eric Ingram, physical therapist at Louisiana Physical Therapy Centers of Pineville. One common imbalance in women is stronger quads and weaker, tighter hamstrings, thanks to prolonged sitting, high heels, and improper training. If you suspect you have a muscle imbalance, make an appointment with a physical therapist, who will prescribe exercises to even you out.
RELATED: LISS vs. HIIT: What's the Difference?
You have bad form
It’s not just about lifting—it’s about lifting safely and correctly. And if you’re not performing exercises properly, it’s impossible to make any progress. “When someone is just starting to work out, it can help to work closely with a knowledgeable personal trainer in order to learn proper form,” says Ingram. But that goes for experienced lifters, too. If you aren’t sure about a movement, it’s better to ask. “If you’re not working the correct muscles, you can’t expect them to grow,” explains Ingram.
Sign up for the Love Your Strength Challenge to get workouts e-mailed straight to your inbox
Your genetics may not be working in your favor
It’s true—your genes can play a role when it comes to building muscle. In general, there are two types of muscle fibers: Type I, which are slow twitch, and Type II, which are fast twitch. Depending on which you have more of, you may have an easier or harder time gaining muscle. “Fast twitch muscle fibers are two times as thick as slow twitch muscle fibers, lending to the overall thickness of the muscle without any activity,” explains Lovitt. “Those people with a genetic predisposition of a high percentage of these fibers can increase muscle size very easily while the people with a higher percentage of slow twitch muscle fibers have to work really hard to put on mass.” It’s the reason why a world-class sprinter genetically has more fast twitch muscle fibers than a world-class marathoner—it comes down to what we’re born with.
7 Reasons You're Not Building Muscle Even Though You're Lifting Weights4 Lower Body Exercises You Can Do in Front of Your TV
Drop it like it’s hot? How about drop it like a squat? If you usually shy away from lower body exercises in favor of above the belt training, it’s time to wise up. Whether or not weight loss is your goal, you’ll get serious pay-off by training your lower half. Your quads, hamstrings and glutes are home to some of the biggest muscles in your body, and those muscles will torch calories both during and after your workout, thanks to excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), the process by which your body replenishes its oxygen stores.
Plus, working your lower body will pay off in about a million different ways. “Lower body strength, much like your core, is a foundation for all fitness,” says Justin Rubin, Daily Burn trainer for True Beginner. Challenging your legs and glutes will translate to better balance, strength and agility — all of which are important for day-to-day activities like racing up the stairs (without burning thighs) or even getting low on the dance floor.
Best of all, you don’t even need a pimped-out gym to get started. We asked Rubin to demonstrate four beginner-friendly moves that can be done pretty much anywhere. (Translation: No equipment required!) For a solid workout, repeat each exercise for one minute, doing as many reps as possible. Then recover for 30 seconds. Complete five rounds and you’ll start to feel the burn! If you want an extra challenge, try the optional towel modifications listed below each description to engage your upper body as well.
RELATED: 15-Minute Leg Workout to Tone Up Fast
4 No-Equipment Lower Body Exercises
1. Reverse Lunges
Targets: Quads, hamstrings, glutes, core
How to: Begin standing with your feet hip-width apart, hands on your hips (a). Shift your weight onto your left leg and step your right leg straight behind you (b). Lower directly downwards until your front and back knees are at 90-degree angles. Hold for one second (c). Next, engage your left thigh and push off your right leg, coming back to a neutral, standing position (d). Repeat on the other side, alternating sides for a minute.
Extra credit: Hold a towel taut between your hands. When you step back for a lunge, twist your upper body in the opposite direction of your back leg. (Example: Twist to the left when you step back with your right leg.)
RELATED: Hate Squats? 7 Glute Exercises for an Instant Butt Lift
2. Squats
Targets: Glutes, quads, hamstrings
How to: Begin with your feet under your hips, legs no wider than your shoulders. Your bodyweight should be in your heels and your arms should be relaxed by your sides (a). Keeping your chest upright and your shoulder blades pulled back, bend your knees and sink down, making sure your knees do not extend beyond your toes. Your arms should extend straight in front of you. Imagine you are touching your butt to a chair (b). Now, drive through your legs and squeeze your glutes to stand back up, letting your arms come down to your sides again (c). Repeat for one minute.
Extra credit: Hold a towel taut between your hands. As you squat down, bring your arms overhead, so your face is in between your biceps. When you drive upwards to stand back up, slowly let your arms come back to your sides.
RELATED: Are You Foam Rolling All Wrong?
3. Side Lunges
Targets: Quads, hamstrings, glutes, core
How to: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, hands on your hips (a). Take a wide step to the left, letting your left foot point diagonally away from you and keeping your right foot planted (b). Keeping your weight in your heels and your chest lifted upwards, turn your left foot and knee out slightly as you sink down into a lunge. Make sure your knees do not come over your toes (c). Next, push off with your left leg, engaging your inner thighs and glutes, and bring the leg back to the neutral starting position (d). Repeat on the other side, alternating sides for a minute.
Extra credit: Want to engage the muscles in your arms? Hold a towel taut between your hands, with your arms extended straight upwards. When you step to one side for a lunge, bring your arms down so the towel touches your outer thigh. Bring your arms upwards as you step in.
RELATED: 3 No-Equipment CrossFit Workouts You Can Do at Home
4. Curtsy Lunges
Targets: Glutes, quads, inner thighs
How to: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, hands on your hips (a). Shift your weight to your right side and step your left leg behind your right leg so your legs are crossed. If you imagine a clock underneath you, your left toes should be at roughly 4 o’clock (b). Bend both knees, not letting them come over your toes, and sink into the lunge, keeping your chest upright (c). Engage your quads and squeeze your glutes as you drive off your left leg, standing up and bringing it back to the starting position (d). Repeat on the other side, alternating sides for one minute.
Extra credit: When standing upright, hold the towel taut in front of your chest. As you step to each side for the curtsy lunge, extend your arms and bring them down so the towel is in front of your shin. Be sure to maintain good upper body posture. Once you drive off your back leg, bring your arms and towel back to your chest.
4 Lower Body Exercises You Can Do in Front of Your TVjeudi 16 février 2017
Venus Williams Describes Her Workout Routine and Eating Habits: 'It's My Job to Be Healthy'
This article originally appeared on People.com.
Working out and eating well are the norm for Venus Williams.”It’s my job to be healthy, so it’s something that’s always in the forefront for me,” the tennis pro, 36, told PEOPLE while discussing her upcoming collection for EleVen. “I’ve been doing this for a quite a while, so it’s easy to be in a routine of what I need to eat and what I need to do to perform at my best level.”Williams varies her workout routine depending on how far out she is from a match, and how tough the match will be.”If it’s two weeks out, it’s a different routine than the day or two days before,” she explains. “Two weeks out I’m training as hard as I can, and then the day before it’s all about just easing your way into the match.”When she’s in training mode, Williams says gym workouts are just as vital as tennis practice.
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“I usually do an equal amount of time on the court and time in the gym,” she says. “Half the battle is in the gym.”And when she’s not training, she’s sure to give her body the rest it needs.”Taking time off is also important too!”As for her eating habits, when Williams is preparing for a tennis match, she’ll load up on healthy carbs such as steamed rice and sweet potatoes. And while she eats a clean, plant-based diet for the most part, she does let herself splurge when she wants to.”I do splurge, absolutely, because I’m human and I want to have a great life,” she says. “I happen to love different treats and butter, things like that. You just have to live a balanced life.”
Venus Williams Describes Her Workout Routine and Eating Habits: 'It's My Job to Be Healthy'mercredi 15 février 2017
Is Running Good or Bad for Your Knees?
This article originally appeared on Time.com.
Running has a reputation for causing wear and tear on knees over time, leading to joint pain, arthritis or other injuries. But a recent small study found that 30 minutes of running actually lowered inflammation in runners’ knee joints, leading many to question whether running really does increase a person’s risk for injuries—or if it helps prevent them.
In the report, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, researchers at Brigham Young University brought 15 healthy runners ages 18 to 35 into a lab where they took samples of their blood and knee joint fluid before and after they ran for 30 minutes on a treadmill. They also assessed the same samples when they were sedentary.
The researchers expected to find an increase in molecules that spur inflammation in people’s knee fluid after they ran, but they didn’t. Instead, they found that pro-inflammatory markers actually decreased after a 30-minute run. The scientists ended up only getting complete information from six of the people in the study, but they saw the same results in all of those people.
“It was surprising,” says study author Matt Seeley, an associate professor of exercise science at BYU. “We expected the molecules to increase, but it was the opposite.” Seeley stresses that the report is a pilot study, and that due to the small number of people, there’s not a lot that can be inferred from the findings. The researchers also only looked at inflammation right after people ran, rather than a week or month later. But Seeley says his team plans to do the same study in more people in the future.
“I think, and hope, the data shows that running is good for your joints,” Seeley adds. “Although the results are limited, they are also unexpected and could be important.”
Some experts not involved in the study say that while the study findings are intriguing—even given the small sample size—it’s not yet clear whether running can protect knees from injuries or arthritis. “There is data on both sides of the fence,” says Dr. Brian Feeley, an orthopedic surgeon at the University of California, San Francisco. “We know that there are some people that run all the time with no knee problems, and others that have arthritis at a relatively young age.” (Feeley was not involved in the recent study.)
For many runners, a 30-minute session is relatively short, and Feeley says the study does not necessarily suggest that long-distance running is safe. Other studies of marathon runners have found changes in cartilage that could suggest potential for injuries that can persist for months after a long race.
“Taken together, this suggests that there is probably an evolutionary advantage to allow us to run relatively short distances where our bodies protect cartilage from damage by decreasing inflammation,” says Feeley. “Long distance running may result in a situation where overwhelming the knee’s ability to decrease inflammation occurs, leading to the potential for joint degeneration.”
Both Seeley and Feeley agree that the benefits of running outweigh the risks of not running (especially if done in moderation.) Other factors, like weight or genetics, may also contribute to whether a person is more likely to get arthritis or other injuries from running. More research is needed to fully understand the risks and benefits. In the meantime, people who run can reduce their risk of knee problems through cross training and taking time to recover, as well as paying attention to any pain or swelling.
Is Running Good or Bad for Your Knees?mardi 14 février 2017
5 Resistance Band Exercises that Burn Fat and Build Muscle
lundi 13 février 2017
6 Exercises to Sculpt Lean, Strong Legs Like Your Favorite Stars at the Grammys
Tune into the Grammy Awards last night? Then you know that legs were having a major moment. From the red carpet to the performance stage, the limbs of several of our favorite celebs, including Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Carrie Underwood, Taraji P. Henson, Heidi Klum, and (all of) Beyonce, were on display in micro minis, gorgeous gowns with thigh-high splits, and barely-there booty shorts. And let’s be honest: We were here for all of it.
In honor of their striking stems, we’ve pulled together some of our toughest leg toners to help you get a leg up as well. While it won’t be easy, these exercises will definitely be effective in helping to get those gams in showoff shape.
You leaner, stronger leg plan starts now.
Side Lunge
Start with feet in a wide stance; toes pointed forward. Lunge to the right, lowering as far down as possible, and then lift and flex the left foot. Return left foot back to ground, pushing into it to rise back up start. Repeat movement on the left side.
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Hip Bridge
Lie faceup with knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and toes lifted; arms should be at sides with fingers facing toes. Lift hips until back forms a straight line from knees to shoulders. Hold for 1 second, and then lower back to start. Repeat 15 times. (To see how it's done, click here.)
Flying Crescent Lunge
Start with feet together. Step backward with left foot, lowering down into a lunge. Keeping the right knee over the right ankle, reach arms up. Pushing off with both feet, jump straight up. Land back into a lunge, but this time with the right foot back. This is 1 rep; do 25. (Check the move out here.)
Down Dog Split
Start on all fours. Straighten legs and lift hips and butt into air to come into down dog. Push hands and feet into ground; relax head between arms. Lift right leg up as high as you can while keeping it straight; flex foot. Lower leg and repeat movement with left leg. (See it done here.)
Jazz Split Plank Lift
Lie on your right side with legs stacked, torso propped up on right elbow and left hand on floor. With knees slightly bent, stretch the bottom (right) leg forward and top (left) leg back. Lift hips and legs off of ground, balancing on the sides of feet, elbow, and hand. Lift back leg a few inches off the ground; hold for a moment, then release back to start. Do 15 to 30 reps per side. (For a visual, click here.)
Walking Side Squats with a Resistance Band
Stand with feet hip-width apart and a medium resistance band wrapped around ankles or just above knees (band taut); place hands on hips. Squat, and then step left foot out to left. Step right leg in toward left, keeping enough space so band remains taut. Do 10 reps. Reverse motion, stepping out to the right 10 times. Do 2 sets 3 times a week. (Click here for an illustration.)
6 Exercises to Sculpt Lean, Strong Legs Like Your Favorite Stars at the Grammys
5 Exercises for Better Posture
7 Pro Tips to Get Consistent With Your Workouts
Looking for an answer to why you’re falling short of your fitness goals? Creating and maintaining a regular workout schedule just might be the secret sauce you’re forgetting to toss into your workout plan.
“You need to be consistent for the beneficial changes of exercise to occur in your body,” says Edward R. Laskowski, MD, co-director of Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine. “For example, regular, consistent aerobic exercise stimulates the growth of new capillaries to bring blood to your muscles. This takes several weeks to occur.” It also takes weeks of strength training to grow muscle fibers, which will make you stronger and more toned. Simply put, “if you’re inconsistent, these physiologic changes take longer to occur and the changes will not be as robust,” Dr. Laskowski explains.
RELATED: 17 Tips from Fit Moms on Finding Time for Exercise
The Consistency Formula for Getting Fit
Though there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to how consistent your routine needs to be, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans provides a solid outline. Aim for 150 minutes a week of moderately intense physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, and lift weights twice a week. It helps to try to move more often throughout your day, whether you’re getting up to go chat with a colleague or taking a midday jog, says Dr. Laskowski.
An easy way to make sure you can stick to a workout: Find something you like. That could mean walking around your neighborhood after dinner most nights or signing up for a membership at your favorite studio. “It can take a long time to develop that consistency, but when something becomes a part of your everyday life, it feels much less like a chore and much more like a given,” says Kristie Larson, an instructor at Row House in New York City. “And that’s when it really gets fun.”
Of course, you’re not alone if a regular workout routine seems near impossible. But no matter how busy your schedule, it can happen. We talked to some top trainers to find out how they promote a regular routine for their clients — and for themselves.
RELATED: 9 Reasons to Never Skip a Workout, As Told to Trainers
7 Tips to Make Your Fitness More Consistent
1. Become a regular class goer.
It seems easy: If you want to work out frequently, commit to a class, gym session or online workout at the same time and same day at least three times a week, suggests Larson. (She does this with her own schedule.) By going consistently, you also commit to getting better at that activity. In the example of rowing, you’ll perfect your form, build endurance and become a stronger rower. “Tracking progress is extremely important when talking about consistency,” she says. When you see improvements, it’s a major motivator.
RELATED: 15 Genius Meal Prep Ideas from Top Trainers
2. Rise and shine.
Ever try becoming a member of the morning exercise club? It could be the answer to making your workouts stick. Several experts suggest tackling a sweat session before your day gets overloaded, so you can make sure to fit it in. “In your first hour of waking, you have the opportunity to aim all of your energy toward creating your healthiest self,” says Ann Green, founder of Bliss Yoga in Barrie, Ontario. Use the time wisely — even if it’s just 10 minutes. Lay out your outfit and pack your gym bag the night before, too. Then you’re ready to hit the ground running (literally!) in the morning.
RELATED: 15 Get-Out-of-Bed Tricks from Fitness Pros
3. Make an announcement.
Besides the much-talked-about idea of planning your workout schedule in advance (and putting it on the calendar!), it can also help if you tell your co-workers what you plan to do. That’s how Allie Whitesides, a personal trainer and Daily Burn Fitness/Nutrition Coach, fits in a sweat session. “On the days where I can’t work out before my day starts, I pick another 30-minute window to get active,” she says. “Then I announce it at work — and [the people around me] make me feel guilty if I don’t get it done. It works for me.”
4. Form relationships.
When you get to know your instructor, other people in a class or even the front desk staff, you start to feel more accountable for your workouts. “If you know that someone will notice your absence, you’re going to think twice about skipping class,” Larson says.
RELATED: Strength in Numbers: How to Find Your Fitness Tribe
5. Find balance.
Ever since Daily Burn 365 trainer Krystal Dwyer had her baby nine months ago, fitting in regular exercise has become a little more difficult. But she finds little ways to squeeze it in, like going for long walks, doing at-home workouts (which sometimes involve her daughter) or signing up for a gym right next door. She also tracks her steps so she knows when she needs to kick up her numbers at the end of the day. “It’s about thinking outside of the box to make your goals happen,” Dwyer says. “All in all, I do my best every day, as I encourage others to do. But some days might not go as planned — and that’s OK, too!”
6. Factor in rest days.
Diving into an intense workout could mean you fall off the wagon as soon as you feel worn out, which probably won’t take long. So don’t be afraid to take days off when your body feels like it needs a break. “And choose training methods that are sustainable,” says Larson. “Fitness is not about abusing your body. It’s about taking care of it.”
RELATED: 5 Restorative Yoga Poses to Ease Your Muscles (And Your Mind)
7. Streamline your obligations.
Take a cue from Noah Neiman, co-founder of Rumble, a boxing studio in New York City: “I know that if I am my best self — and take care of the only piece of real estate that one can truly own in their lifetime, my body — I will be a better version of myself for everyone else.” That means you shouldn’t be afraid to turn down extra projects or nights out in favor of getting active. And even more importantly, know that doing so isn’t a selfish act.
7 Pro Tips to Get Consistent With Your Workoutsvendredi 10 février 2017
Look Better Naked With These 3 Exercises From Dakota Johnson’s Trainer
This Tracy Anderson Workout Will Tone Your Entire Body With Just a Towel
Your body language can be very powerful. Are you constantly slouching or crossing your arms? You may be unintentionally telling those around you that you lack strength or are defensive. What's more, this type of posture ends up closing off your upper body and making you look less fit. If you crave a longer, leaner frame, developing the upper body is essential.
To work on opening yourself up, try incorporating a hand towel in your workout. Yes, a hand towel! Holding it taut forces you to stretch your arms apart and press your shoulders back, which instantly opens you up. Not to mention, keeping the towel pulled tight as you move your body challenges your brain to stay fully engaged (always the goal).
This routine—which requires you to extend and lift your lower body, as well—will soon have you moving through life a little straighter, a little stronger, and much more aware of the space you occupy.
Do 30 reps of each move in the series on one side, then repeat sequence on the other side. And don't forget your 30 to 60 minutes of cardio six times a week.
RELATED: This Is Tracy Anderson's Go-To Arm Workout
1. Lunge and Arabesque
Kneel on left knee with right foot on the floor, toes pointed out and knee at 90 degrees; hold towel taut above head (A). Lower yourself forward, bringing hands to the floor as right leg swings back and up (B). Return to "A" and repeat.
2. Knee Pull and Arabesque
Start on all fours, holding a towel taut. Raise left thigh out to the side, coming into a fire hydrant position. Lower down to right forearm and extend left elbow up until towel is taut (A). Pull left knee in toward shoulder, then extend left leg diagonally back and out with toes pointed (B). Pull knee back in and repeat.
3. Coupé to Attitude Lift
Kneel, holding a towel taut behind head. Lower right hand down to the floor and tuck left ankle behind right knee (A). Lift left thigh up and back (B). Return to "A" and repeat.
4. Straight Leg Swing
Lie on right side with legs slightly bent; prop upper body up on right forearm, place left palm on the floor, and extend left leg straight up (A). Rotate torso so it faces down as you come onto right knee while swinging left leg back and up, toes pointed (B). Return to "A"; repeat.
5. Knee Hike and Hip Lift
Lie on right side with right leg bent at 90 degrees; prop upper body up on right forearm, place left palm on the floor, and lift left leg (A). As you lift right hip up, pull left knee in toward shoulder so left leg forms a 90-degree angle (B). Return to "A" and repeat.
Tracy's wearing: Karma Athletics KarmaLuxe bra, from $78; similar styles at usa.karmaathletics.com. Karma Athletics KarmaLuxe Camille Crop leggings, $92; usa.karmaathletics.com. Nike Air Max 1 Jacquard sneakers, $140; similar styles at nike.com.
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You’re Using the Rowing Machine All Wrong—Here’s a Quick Fix
Target Is Running a Major Deal on Apple Watches
This article originally appeared on SouthernLiving.com.
You can score the Series 1 38mm Apple Watch at Target for $199.99, which is $70 off of the regular price and $169 less than the Series 2 Apple Watch. The offer includes several different color options for the band and the watch face. If you have not yet found the perfect gift for your Valentine, we are certain this will be a welcome surprise. The sale will run through February 11.
BUY IT: $199.99; target.com
When comparing the Series 1 and Series 2, the biggest difference is the Series 2 is waterproof and the Series 1 is only splash resistant. The Series 2 watch also has a built in GPS, but the Series 1 will measure distance traveled when walking or running.
jeudi 9 février 2017
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This Barre-Inspired Move Helped Sculpt Lea Michele’s Butt
The bottom line: Lea Michele's booty is banging, and she's not afraid to show it off. But how does she keep that posterior round and lifted? The Booty Crossover. "This move is great because it doesn't add bulk," says Erin Romney, owner of Romney studios in New Orleans, who has trained the Scream Queens star. "It actually slims down and tones, thanks to the high reps and using gravity as your weight." Do it three days a week, making sure to include rest days in between, and you'll notice a boost in those buns within the first two weeks.
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How to do it: Stand with hands on a barre or sturdy object (like a chair back) at about hip height. Walk backward until you bend at the hips, coming into about a 90-degree angle. Hold abs tight and squeeze butt as you raise right leg parallel to the floor (A). Lower right leg, crossing it behind left; tap right roes on the floor (B). Lift leg to return to "A". Continue for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes or until fatigued. Finish by pulsing right leg while it's extended for 30 seconds. Repeat with left leg. To make this move even harder, up your reps and/or add some light ankle weights.
Pin the full workout:
Hate Squats? 7 Glute Exercises for an Instant Butt Lift
Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
If you’re not a fan of squats, or due to knee issues, don’t feel comfortable dropping low, there’s still hope for your derriere. The revered functional movement is great for building strength, improving mobility and sculpting a curved physique, but it’s not the only exercise that can do the trick.
Single-leg lifts, lateral lunges and donkey kicks are just a few glute exercises that can help get your booty in gear without getting low. But don’t be fooled, these seven moves, demonstrated by Daily Burn 365 trainers, will still whip your rear into shape. While they don’t require explosive movements like some squat variations, the high reps, pulses and balance moves are guaranteed to make it burn.
RELATED: 5 Better Ways to Sculpt a Stronger Butt
7 Glute Exercises to Tone Your Booty
Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
1. Dirty Dog
This barre-inspired move, also known as the fire hydrant, will give your glutes, outer thighs and core some serious sculpting action. Just remember to keep your hips square and lifted to get the most out of this exercise. The bent-knee hip extension will give your core and obliques some TLC, too.
How to: Get into tabletop position with your knees directly under your hips and hands under your shoulders (a). Keeping both knees bent, lift your right leg until your right thigh is parallel to the floor (b). Then, extend your right leg straight, with your right foot flexed (c). Bring the right leg back down to the ground, knee bent (d). Repeat for 10 reps, then switch sides.
RELATED: 7 No-Crunch Exercises for Six-Pack Abs
Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
2. Donkey Kicks
Another highly targeted move, donkey kicks are a great way to fire up the gluteus maximus (the meatiest muscle in your backside, responsible for movement in the hip and thigh). As you kick into gear, make sure to tighten your lower ab muscles and avoid sagging your hips on one side.
How to: Get into tabletop position, keeping your knees directly under your hips, hands under your shoulders and toes tucked (a). Keeping your right knee bent foot flexed and core engaged, press your right foot up towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes as you reach higher. At the top position, your right thigh and foot should be parallel to the floor (b). Lower your right knee back down to the starting position (c). Do 10 reps, then move on to the left.
RELATED: 5 Glute Bridges You Can Do in Front of Your TV
Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
3. Glute Bridge
Glute bridges are the perfect booty-shaping exercise because they target all three muscles that make up your butt: gluteus maximus, medius and minimus. They also help stretch your hamstrings and relieve tightness. The key with this exercise is to reach full extension, while keeping your shoulders grounded.
How to: Lay on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor a few inches away from your butt (a). Arms at your sides, or raised out in front of you (palms together), press up into a bridge, lifting your hips and butt off the ground. Keep your shoulders grounded, hips square and body in a straight line from your neck to your knees (b). Hold the bridge for two breaths before you bring your hips and butt back down to the ground (c). Do 10 reps.
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Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
4. The Clam
Mobility masters love this move because it addresses hip rotation and glute strength in one fell swoop. Not only will you work out the kinks from sitting all day, in just a few reps, you’ll start to feel the burn in those glutes and thighs.
How to: Lay on your left side with knees bent, and press up on your left forearm, into a modified side plank (a). Square your hips and place your right hand at your waist. Your body should form a diagonal line from the top of your head to the ground (b). Engaging your abs, glutes and thighs, rotate your top leg open (knee bent), so your legs form a diamond (c). Then, close the clamshell returning to the starting position (d). Repeat for 10 reps per side.
RELATED: 5 Power Lunges for Killer Glutes
Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
5. Lateral Lunge
Lateral lunges will not only strengthen your glutes but also the muscles around your hip and knee joints. To get the most out of this move, you’ll want to keep your back straight and your chest lifted as you sit back into the lunge. Lateral lunges can also help improve your hip mobility and stretch out tight hamstrings.
How to: Stand with your feet hip-distance apart and hands at your sides (a). Take a big step with your right foot to the right, gently landing with the right knee bent, being careful not to let it extend past your toes (b). Sit your hips back and allow your left leg to straighten, feet planted flat on the ground (c). Reverse the lunge and return to the starting position (d). Do 10 reps per side.
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Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
6. Single Leg Touchdowns
A test of balance and strength, the single-leg touch exercise improves your range of motion and helps loosen your joints. As you stand on one leg, bring awareness to your upper body to help stabilize weight throughout your body.
How to: Stand with feet hip-distance apart with your weight on your left foot, arms at your sides (a). Take your right kneed and bend it behind you, and wrap right hand around your right foot. Have a slight bend on your left knee if you need support for balance (b). Engaging your ab muscles and squeezing your glutes, hinge forward at the waist and tap the ground with your left hand (c). Lower your right leg down while lifting your torso back up to the starting position (d). Perform 10 reps on each side.
RELATED: 15-Minute Leg Workout to Tone Up Fast
Photo: Ryan Kelly / Daily Burn 365
7. Single-Leg Forward Reach
Last but not least, another booty balance challenge. The forward reach will help offset your weight as your leg extends behind you. The name of the game is stability and building a strong base.
How to: Stand with all your weight on your left foot (a). Keeping your left knee slightly bent, extend your right leg straight behind you with your toes hovering just above the floor (b). Then, reach your arms up and hinge forward at the waist as you lift your right leg up until it’s parallel to the floor (c). Pause and hold this position for two breaths (d). Lower your right leg to the floor as you stand upright and rest your right foot on the ground (e). Do 8-10 reps per side.
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mercredi 8 février 2017
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Look Better Naked With These 3 Exercises From Dakota Johnson’s Trainer
There’s no doubt Dakota Johnson will be showing a good deal of skin in 50 Shades Darker, out tomorrow. We couldn’t help but notice how toned and fit the 25-year-old actress looks in the trailers, and of course, we wanted to know how she got ready for all those steamy nude scenes. Lucky for us, Johnson’s trainer, Ramona Braganza, shared some of her secrets with Health. During the five months of filming in Vancouver, the pair worked together five times a week on routines that combined cardio and strength training. “For [Dakota], it was about lengthening, and looking long and lean,” she says. So their focus was on slow, controlled, pilates-style movements.
Below are three of the key moves that helped Johnson tone her legs and tighten up her core:
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V hold
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Start by sitting tall with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lean back slightly and scoop in your abs. Then slowly lift your legs, one at a time, so your calves are parallel to the floor. When you're ready, extend both legs to form a V shape with your body. Hold for a count of 10. Do 3 reps. Remember to keep your back straight—and don't forget to breathe.
Lying leg raises
“[Dakota] really liked to do legs and glutes," says Braganza, and this was one of her go-to exercises: Lie on your side in a straight line with your bottom arm extended past your head. Rest your head on that outstretched arm. For support you can place your top hand on the ground; but the goal is to use your core to stabilize your body. Now raise your top leg and, without rolling your hips backward, use your leg to write the alphabet in the air. Then switch sides and repeat with the other leg. Braganza's tip: As you do this exercise, "reach your legs far away from your body and think lengthening."
Single-leg press
This move tones your glutes and tightens your core at the same time. Star on all fours; lower to your forearms and clasp your hands. Pull your right knee toward your chest, with foot flexed, then extend right leg back and up. Reverse the motion to bring your right knee back toward your chest. (It should hover over the floor.) Do 20 reps, and switch legs. Need more of a challenge? Add 3-pound ankle weights.
Look Better Naked With These 3 Exercises From Dakota Johnson’s Trainermardi 7 février 2017
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lundi 6 février 2017
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There May Be a Downside to Working Out With Music
If you often run with music, or podcasts, or while watching television on the treadmill, you might want to listen up—literally. New research supports the idea that auditory and visual distractions while running may raise your risk for leg injuries.
The findings aren't terribly surprising. It makes sense that the more things we have on our minds while working out, the less careful we may be about our form, biomechanics, obstacles in the way, or how hard we’re really working. But this may be one of the first times researchers have compared distracted versus non-distracted running in a lab setting, and really quantified the results.
To test their hypothesis that distractions could interfere with safety, researchers from the University of Florida asked 14 experienced runners to run on a treadmill three separate times—once while watching a screen that flashed different letters and colors; once while listening to words spoken by different voices; and once with no background images or noise. For both distraction scenarios, they were asked to pay attention and identify certain letter-color or word-voice combinations.
The researchers noted that when the runners concentrated on those distractions, they applied force to their legs at a faster rate, compared to when they had a single focus. They also tended to breathe heavier and have higher heart rates while distracted. During the listening scenario, they also experienced an increased amount of force from the ground—meaning they came down harder with each foot fall.
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The results, presented at the annual meeting of the Association of Academic Physiatrists in Las Vegas, are preliminary and have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. The authors didn’t look specifically at whether these things really do lead to sports injuries. But they say it’s certainly possible—and runners who often train or race with with music, crowd noise, or lots of other people, may be particularly vulnerable, they say.
Sometimes this type of background noise can’t be helped, of course—and sometimes you just really need Spotify to get you though long training runs. But it may be smart not to pile too many new sights and sounds on at once, says lead author Daniel Herman, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the University of Florida's Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation.
“For example, when running a new route in a chaotic environment such as during a destination marathon, you may want to skip listening to something which may require more attention—like a new song playlist or a podcast,” said Dr. Herman in a press release.
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This isn’t the first research to suggest a downside to distracted running: A recent pair of studies found that texting or talking on the phone negatively impacted both balance and workout intensity. (Listening to music, however, did not.)
The bottom line? Be careful out there, and be sure you’re giving your workout the attention it needs.
There May Be a Downside to Working Out With MusicThis Is a Master SoulCycle Instructor’s Favorite At-Home Workout
This article originally appeared on Motto.com.
Don’t you hate when the weather gets really gross out, and you can’t really imagine having to gather your gear, gas up the car and drive in slippery traffic to the fitness studio? It can be really challenging, to say the least. Here are my go-to fitness tips to help you fight weight gain and maintain your muscle tone — even when you can’t get to the gym.
First things first: Always make sure that you stock your refrigerator with healthy food choices before any stretch of bad weather. If you don’t, you’re more likely to order greasy delivery (hello, pizza) or turn to chips or other processed snacks you probably have lying around. Load your fridge full of fruits and veggies, and snack healthy during storms.
Next: Plan ahead by dusting off your old in-home gym mats, weights and any other bands or balls you haven’t used in awhile. You will be more motivated to use them if they’re clean and ready to go. I have a drawer at home with 3 lb. weights, stretch bands and my old Shawn T workout DVDs — all of which are available on Amazon for $20 or less.
Finally: Commit to an at-home workout. My philosophy is that everyone has at least 10 minutes to spare, so no excuses. I’m going to share my personal home sweat circuit, which you can repeat depending on how much time you have. If you follow this workout every single day — and continue to make healthy eating choices — you should be able to keep up your fitness without leaving your home.
Always consult a physician before you begin any new exercise regime, and know your limitations. Never do anything that compromises your safety.
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THE WORKOUT
Grab your equipment: a mat, some light-weight dumbbells (soup cans also work!) and a music player.
Select three or four high-energy songs that get you going — I like “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran, “Find a Way” by Bell Biv DeVoe and “Pets” by Deadmau5 — and hit play.
Song #1:
Warm up with jumping jacks.
Song #2:
Pump out as many quick-paced push-ups as you can. If you need to drop your knees, do it! When you tire and start to lose your form, flip onto your back.
Start on your sit-ups, and be sure to keep your shoulders off the ground. You don’t have to come all the way up, just make sure you’re feeling it in your core — not your neck or back.
Song #3:
Hold the weights (or cans) and get ready to box. Punch left, punch right, uppercut left, uppercut right, punch overhead left, punch overhead right — and repeat through the whole song. Keep your abs engaged and reach your arms long with each punch. Don’t let your home environment distract you — focus on the reason you’re doing this. Repeat the circuit two, three or even four times, depending on your fitness level and available time. Have fun with it!
Stacey Griffith is a senior master instructor at SoulCycle and the author of the upcoming book Two Turns From Zero. Stacey’s motivational coaching style combines a passion for dance, athleticism and mind-blowing music — all set to the beat of her voice. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
This Is a Master SoulCycle Instructor’s Favorite At-Home Workoutvendredi 3 février 2017
First Look: The New Nike LunarEpic Flyknit 2
Nike dropped its brand new Nike LunarEpic FlyKnit 2 ($160; nike.com) this week. What are they really like? Pillow shoes.
I wish I could take credit for that amazing descriptor, but that’s how Olympic Gold Medalist and track star English Garner described them to me, along with a select group of editors, before we hit the tread at Mile High Run Club in New York City to put this new kick through its paces. (I mean that literally, because, well, we did a speed workout.) Garner noted that they were a direct contrast to her typical footwear, track spikes: “Have any of you all ever run an entire workout in spikes?” she asked. “It’s like running a workout in high heels; it hurts.”
While I have never run in track spikes, I have danced the night away in incredibly uncomfortable heels, and I can tell you, this shoe is the opposite of that painful, foot-numbing feeling. In fact, when I first slipped them on, I thought to myself: “This must be what running on clouds feels like.” Seriously, they were that comfortable. That cushy feeling did not fade as I opened up my stride in this lightweight, neutral trainer either. And even in the midst of all that softness, my feet still felt supported.
A few other features that caught my eye:
The cool colorway
I’m a sucker for a brightly-colored kick, so visually they are right up my alley. And that poppy two-tone upper is a nice way to combat the winter blues.
The bootie construction
Basically, the tongue is completely attached here, making the upper one single, seamless piece. This silhouette mimics ankle socks. (And I love ankle socks.)
The FlyKnit upper
This tightly woven material offers a balanced combo of stretch and support, which is more than I can say for some of the other knitted shoes I’ve tested in the past. Typically the knit ends up pulling across the top of my foot, making them ache like crazy. These, however, hug without crushing.
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The flexible feel
These babies can get pretty bendy thanks to those little slits on the sides of the midsole, which help offer a seamless heel to toe transition. Translation: No stiff shoes here.
The super funky sole
This pair has little laser cuts that are supposed to help with traction. Since I sported them on a treadmill, traction wasn’t a huge concern for me; I’d need to take ‘em outdoors to really test that feature. But, if they are anything like the original LunarEpic, you know the ones with that extended piece of fabric over the ankle that I tested last spring, I can tell you the traction will be on point. Also notewrothy: There are these pressure-mapped pods on the sole that offer targeted cushioning for a smooth ride. I think they also give you an extra spring in your step, because I felt unusually buoyant during my run.
Plus: The new Nike Zonal Strength tight
One more thing, I also got to test out the Nike Zonal Strength tight ($150; nike.com), which launched last month. These bad boys have these built-in bands along the thighs and calves. And while those bands form a really cool design, they are there for more than just decoration. According to a Nike spokesperson at the wear-testing event, one thing we often forget about when running is the vibration of our muscles, and how the more they vibrate, the quicker you wear them out. The banding in these tights are meant to compress the muscle to reduce vibration and fatigue. The idea: you can #runforever. OK, not really, but you can probably run a little longer before your stems hold up the stop sign.
To be honest, I’d like to sport these tights on a longer run before giving my final opinion. However, I will say that I did feel the extra pressure around my thighs, and I did have a really good run at this event, despite the fact that I did a pretty tough 5-mile tempo run the day before. Maybe it was a combo of the shoes and the tights—or that energy gel I down right before I hit the treadmill. (Hey, it was an early morning event, I hadn’t eaten breakfast, and I needed a little bit of fuel. No judgment.)
Happy running!
First Look: The New Nike LunarEpic Flyknit 2
Editor Tested: The Workout That Completely Transformed My Abs
This article originally appeared on InStyle.com.
I own twice as many sports bras as I do regular bras. My ideal happy hour involves cardio rather than cocktails, and I never leave home without a pair of gym shoes in my bag just in case the mood strikes to hop into a fitness class while I’m floating around the city. Needless to say, I love working out.
Bonus: being in my role here at InStyle means I get to try a lot of different workouts as studios open around town, which means I rarely commit to the same workout for an extended period of time. Or that was the case, rather, until I found SLT.
Blend muscle-lengthening yoga moves with core-toning Pilates principles and you get the full body-sculpting workout known as Strengthen Lengthen Tone. It’s basically a hyped up Pilates class done on a calorie-torching Megaformer machine, and it's one of the most challenging 50-minute sessions you can find.
Since I started taking class (I’ve been a twice-a-weeker for well over a year now) I’ve seen my body transform unlike any other workout I’ve done (and trust me, I've tried them all). Nothing has worked as well to create a seriously defined core (among other things, including glutes of steel) than regular visits to this hotspot (no wonder that Sofia Vergara, Jamie Chung, and Nina Agdal are regulars. I once took class right next to Karlie Kloss.)
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Although it was clear that my body was changing, I was curious as to why this workout was so much more effective than anything else I’ve tried. “SLT is so effective because it combines the principles of cardio, Pilates and strength training into a revolutionary workout,” SLT founder Amanda Freeman tells me after I pepper her with questions to help me understand the magic. “The workout on the Megaformer allows you to target muscles so specifically and work them until muscle fatigue. And there are a wide variety of moves, so your body is constantly challenged. “
But like most good things in life, it doesn’t come easy. The first time I took class, I could barely hold a plank. My muscles were shaking beyond control. I was next-day sore before I even got off the machine. Afterwards, I couldn’t walk up stairs for days. Now, I can pike up and down the machine like a pro, and I have the core to prove it. I don’t always break a sweat during class (which in the past was always my gauge for how hard I was working; I hated not sweating during a workout) yet every time I take class, I’m still incredibly sore afterwards, further proving that this workout is still changing my body.
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Why is it such a good ab definer? “Thanks to the Megaformer machine, our clients are forced to engage their core nearly the entire 50-minutes of a class,” Freeman says. “The variety of moves that are performed in a class target your abs from all angles in ways no other workout can. You will feel your abs engage and work in specific and unique ways throughout a session.”
Will I continue my long-term relationship with SLT? Obvi (even though my bank account feels the pain from it). Will I continue to try out workouts all over the city to fuel my passion for breaking a sweat? Absolutely. Will I continue to buy sports bras with my paycheck instead of regular bras? You better believe it.
Learn more about SLT ($40 per class, several packages available) at sltnyc.com.
Editor Tested: The Workout That Completely Transformed My Absjeudi 2 février 2017
The Scary Reason #Fitspo Isn’t As Healthy As You Think
The #fitspo photos of toned, muscular bodies in your social media feeds may motivate you to get your sweat on. But those pictures could have a negative side too. For some women, posting such images could be a sign of risky eating and exercise habits, according to researchers from the School of Psychology at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia.
For their study, published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders, the researchers looked at 101 women who regularly posted fitspiration on Instagram—often workout photos, sometimes overlain with a quote (think "Strong beats skinny every time"). A comparison group consisted of 102 women who regularly posted travel pictures, another popular type of inspirational content on Instagram.
What the researchers discovered about the fitspo-posters was alarming: Nearly 18% of them were at risk for diagnosis with a clinical eating disorder, compared to just over 4% of the women in the travel group. The study participants who posted fitspiration were also more likely to experience feelings of shame and depression when they missed a workout—which is a a key indicator of compulsive exercise, according to the study authors.
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"It seems likely, at least for some women, that even though they may present as fit and healthy, regularly posting fitspiration is a culturally sanctioned way of rationalizing dietary restriction, disordered eating, and over-exercising," the authors concluded.
As the researchers point out, #fitspo may not be as harmless as it seems. For one, it entails "repeated representation of only one body type (lean and toned) that is unattainable for most women," they write. What's more, fitspo focuses on how working out can make you look, rather than the long list of important benefits exercise can provide, from improved digestion and energy to more balanced moods and less inflammation.
So while a snapshot of sculpted abs may help you get off the couch and to the gym, it's important as ever to evaluate the real reasons you work out, and make sure you're sweating first and foremost to get fit and healthy, physically and mentally.
The Scary Reason #Fitspo Isn’t As Healthy As You Think